A Pebble Beach Lexus RX commercial that ran last year was backed by the most beautiful electronica track. After some research I found out that the song was written for the commercial by Kael Alden (one of three members who Faded Paper Figures- whose debut album was number 5 on my 08 list). I really got into the Faded Paper Figures and then noticed on their website that Alden petitioned Lexus for the rights to make a full length version of the song (probably because so many others were fans of the commercial). Due to legal issues the release was very delayed- until now- or a month and a half ago anyway. "Where You Belong" was released on www.fadedpaperfigures.com on December 5 2008 making it 100% eligible for my Best of 08 List, but I didn't discover it until today!
Luckily, the full length did not disappoint in any way. It actually surprised me and rocked a little more than I expected it to. The restrained yet intense drums drive the song once they kick in. The juxtaposition of choppy vocal samples with flowing synth riffs creates a delicate atmosphere perfect for musical immersion.
Between this song and Faded Paper Figures' album "Dynamo" there is so much worth praising. I can't wait to see what these guys do next. they show so much musical promise, Faded Paper Figures and Kael Alden are names worth remembering. But in the meantime LISTEN TO "Where You Belong"!!
